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Las Vegas is world-renowned for its vibrant nightlife and endless casino floors. But did you know that the city offers a plethora of non-gambling activities? Whether you're a travel enthusiast, planning a family vacation, or simply looking to explore Las Vegas beyond the casinos, this guide will take you through the best places and experiences in Sin City that don't involve placing a bet.
I have taken several trips to Vegas and every time I come back broke, Gambling is fun, but you need to find ways to save money to afford to gamble, or better yet avoid it all together. Vegas can be fun for non-gamblers too, and every trip I take to Vegas I take time away from the Strip gambling to explore the city and surrounding areas. Today I will be showing you some of the ways to have fun in Vegas without Gambling. It will save you some money while on vacation.
Best things to do in Vegas besides gamble.
The Iconic Vegas Sign
No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a visit to the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign. This historic landmark has been welcoming visitors since 1959. Snap a photo here and kickstart your Vegas adventure with a dash of nostalgia. This is a favorite stop for first time visitors.
Walk the Strip and People Watch
Walking the Las Vegas Strip is an experience in itself. The neon lights, the bustling crowds, and the extravagant architecture make for a mesmerizing stroll. Pop into the various casinos and hotels, such as The Bellagio, with its mesmerizing fountain show or botanical garden, or The Venetian, where you can take a gondola ride through the indoor canals. The Vegas strip still has plenty of things to see and do when not gambling. Here is a list of a few more ideas.
Mandalay Bay- Aquarium
Luxor- Titanic exhibit, The Bodies Exhibition, King Tuts Tomb
New York New York- ride the rollercoaster, but their dueling pianos performance is great.
Paris- go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, or if you are a cigar lover visit the Montecristo Cigar Bar.
Aria- Easys Cocktail Lounge, a speakeasy, tucked in behind the donut shop
Cosmopolitan- many secret bars or lounges to attempt to find.
The Strat- go to the top of their version of the space needle, and you can ride the X-Scream, Insanity, The Big Shot, and the Sky jump.
Bellagio- It has to be mentioned again. The Bellagio Fountains, botanical gardens (the conservatory), and the Chihuly Glass blown flowers exhibit.
The Venetian and Palazzo- The gondola filled lagoons inside and outside of the resort, Madame Tussauds famous wax museum is also located here. WIth a whole floor upstairs dedicated to shopping and eating, this is a must see resort. Did you know they have a preview Movie studio, where you can watch small segments of future movies and TV shows and fill out a questionnaire afterwards. You are helping to decide what will be released to the public on TV or at the movies.
Caesars Palace- look at the marble, statues and you will feel like you are ancient Rome. Visit the Forum for shopping with many unique stores. There Is also an aquarium there. Plus, the seahorse lounge has a seahorse aquarium. If you visit Dominique Ansel try their cookie shots, they are great.
The Flamingo- Check out the Flamingo exhibit, and they also have other birds here too. This is one of my favorites.
Harrah's Casino- stop by the Ghirardelli ice cream shop. Everyone loves Ghirardelli chocolate.
Circus Circus- kids enjoy the upstairs area where the indoor theme park, and in the casino, look up, sometimes you will see circus events. Check their schedule to find out when.
The Wynn and Encore- built in 2005 this is a nice casino and resort, take a stroll and look at the waterfalls, lake and manmade mountain. Plus one of the best buffets on the strip, although it is one of the most expensive. They also always have a collection of cars inside, from race cars to one of the fanciest Ferrari’s.
MGM Grand- large resort, and I get lost in there everytime I visit because it is so large. They have a CBS viewing center, something similar to what the Venetian has.
Treasure Island- visit the Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. which will take you deeper into the Marvel Universe. It's not free, but if you enjoy those movies, this is a must see in vegas.
Resorts World- Redtail is the place to be if you would like to rent a karaoke room, arcade, restaurant, lounge and so much more. If you are into Night clubs, Resort World has the Zouk Nightclub and is a favorite of the strip.
Find Your Inner Child at the Pinball Hall of Fame
The Pinball Hall of Fame is a must-visit for anyone who loves arcade games. This museum boasts the world's largest collection of pinball machines, ranging from vintage classics to modern marvels. Spend a few hours here, this is a great place to make you feel like a kid again, and pinballs are $.25 like the good old days.
Explore Chinatown
Las Vegas's Chinatown is a hidden gem filled with authentic Asian cuisine, unique shops, and cultural experiences. Indulge in delicious dim sum and explore the various markets for a taste of international flair. Shanghai Plaza is a great place for food and some shopping.
Immerse Yourself in Meow Wolf's Omega Mart
Meow Wolf's Omega Mart is an immersive art experience like no other. This interactive supermarket takes you on a surreal journey filled with mind-bending art installations and hidden passages. It's an adventure for the senses and a feast for the imagination.
The Sphere
Take in a show at the Sphere, but even if not, just watching it light up during the day or night is a fun thing to see. It is hard to spot if just walking the strip. The tram on the backside of MGM Grand will give you a great view of it when riding the whole length of tram ride.
High Roller Observation Wheel
Located behind the LINQ hotel and casino and easy access from the tram system, take a ride on this large Ferris wheel. For an interesting view of the city.
Helicopter Tours
You can take a helicopter ride during the day or night, but in my opinion if you are up for this type of adventure, take the tour at night. With all the lights on at the casinos at night, it is a magical experience.
Take in a show
They have everything in Vegas. From Blue Man Group to concerts like Shinna Twain. Some of the bests are America’s Got Talent the Live Show, Jabbarwockeez, or Cirque du Soleil. Every resort on the strip has some sort of performance entertainment, from concert residencies to comedy acts. There is something for everyone here in Vegas.
Other Noteworthy Stops
The National Atomic Testing Museum- offers a fascinating glimpse into the atomic age.
Old Mormon Fort- The original homestead in Vegas.
Nevada State Museum- has many exhibits to learn about the Rat Pack and see the Showgirls wall.
Fantasy Lab- Located in the Fashion Mall, gives a unique experience, it's an art exhibit with a sensory experiment as well.
Flyover- This experience located off strip uses a screen to make you feel like you are flying over a variety of places. A really interesting experience.
Paradox Museum- watch optical illusions and try to figure out how this can be possible.
Play Playground- full of interactive games, from puzzles to memory games. A great experience for the whole family.
Fremont Street's Hidden Treasures
Downtown Las Vegas, or old town as it is known by, is a great place to spend some time at, day or night. It tends to be livelier at night with free shows and stages set up for bands to perform, plus all those lights from the casino. Every casino has something interesting to see, plus ride the zipline through the sky.
The Neon Museum
The Neon Museum, also known as the Neon Boneyard, is located near Fremont Street and is a haven for lovers of vintage Las Vegas signs. Wander through the collection and marvel at the artistry and history of these illuminated relics.
Berlin Wall in Main Street Casino
A piece of history awaits at the Main Street Casino, where you can find a section of the Berlin Wall. This unexpected yet intriguing attraction is displayed in the men's restroom, but don't worry—ladies can request a private viewing too.
The Aquarium in the Golden Nugget
The Golden Nugget houses a stunning 200,000-gallon aquarium filled with exotic marine life. The highlight? A water slide that takes you right through the middle of the tank, offering a unique and thrilling underwater view.
The Circa Resort and Casino
The only adults only resort in Vegas, but the best thing about this hotel is the pool. General admission starts at $15, and it is massive, but the other massive thing at this pool is its 14-million-pixel screen to watch the game or whatever else is playing. The pool is open all year long, which is unusual for pools in Vegas.
The Art's District
Just a short walk from Fremont Street, the Arts District is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with galleries, street art, and cozy cafes. Explore the creative side of Las Vegas and perhaps even pick up a one-of-a-kind piece to take home.
Mob Museum
Located just a couple blocks away from Fremont Street, learn about the history of organized crime. Vegas was built by the Mob basically, so you will learn a lot about the history of Las Vegas while visiting.
Day Trips from Vegas
Henderson Nevada
Just a few minutes south of Vegas, Henderson is Nevada's 2nd largest city. With 8 golf courses and the Artisan Booze District, if you would like to stay close to Vegas but away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip, check out Henderson. Also located here is the Clark County Museum, Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, Lion Habitat Ranch, and Ethel M Chocolates with Botanical Cactus Garden.
Lee Canyon
Only an hour away from Las Vegas and perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. This is in the Spring Mountains area of Nevada, which is known for hiking and biking in non-winter months also. This is a great place to visit to get out into nature.
Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder just a short drive from Las Vegas. With its stunning red cliffs and scenic hiking trails, it's the perfect escape for nature lovers. Don't forget your camera—every angle is Instagram-worthy.
The Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is an engineering marvel that straddles the Nevada-Arizona border. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and see the massive structure up close. The views from the top are absolutely awe-inspiring.
Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is an art installation featuring seven towering stacks of brightly colored boulders. Located in the desert just outside Vegas, this whimsical attraction makes for a great photo op and a quick, fun excursion, with fun things to see.
Lake Mead
Lake Mead is a sprawling reservoir that offers a variety of water activities. Rent a boat, go kayaking, or simply relax on the shore. It's a refreshing change of pace from the city's hustle and bustle.
Primm Nevada
This is all about 3 casinos, so you will have to step inside, especially at the Buffalo Bill's Resort and Casino where you can see the Bonnie and Clyde death car, plus some items from inside the car. This is a pretty neat exhibit. There is also another car on exhibit, the bullet proof car of Al Capone’s, which was originally built for Dutch Shultz. These vehicles are currently at Buffalo Bill's Resort and Casino, but have spent time at Whiskey Pete's Casino, just across the interstate.
Mount Charleston
Escape the desert heat by heading to Mount Charleston, where you can hike amidst cooler temperatures and enjoy lush alpine scenery. In the winter, the area even offers skiing and snowboarding.
Desert National Wildlife Refuge
If you would like the chance to hike and possibly see bighorn sheep, this is the place to visit. This area is twice the size of the state of Rhode Island. There is so much to see and do up here out in nature you will be blown away. Visit the Corn Creek Visitor center and start a walk on one of 5 different trails.
Valley of Fire State Park/ Lost City Museum
Valley of Fire State Park is Nevada's oldest and largest state park, known for its stunning red sandstone formations. Hike the trails, explore ancient petroglyphs, and take in the fiery landscape that gives the park its name. While in the area visit the Lost City Museum to learn about the Native American Culture from this area.
West Rim of the Grand Canyon
A visit to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon is a must for anyone staying in Las Vegas. The Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon, offers unparalleled views of the canyon and Colorado River, plus an exhilarating experience.
Death Valley
Just a couple hours away, Death Valley is a neat place to see. Just be prepared for it to be hot, especially in summer. Best time to visit would be in winter or early spring. Earlier this year there was water in Death Valley, which is quite unusual. Plus, this little road trip will take you into the California side
Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in Utah, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From its towering cliffs to its serene rivers, Zion offers a variety of trails and breathtaking vistas. It's well worth the drive for a day of adventure and natural beauty.
Bryce National Park
Although it is the farthest away, it is beautiful, staring down in the valley of hoodoos is breathtaking. If renting a car, it will be over a 3-hour drive, but you can join a tour from Las Vegas where you don't have to drive at all, it just makes for a long day. But the sites are well worth the day away from Vegas.
Las Vegas Tips and Tricks to save money.
First thing first, wherever you gamble sign up for a card, just by gambling you earn points with that casino, and it will help you earn deals. Also, they all usually have a new sign-up offer that gets you more money to gamble on or a chance to win a great prize or perks. My card at The Strat gave me a free 100 bucks to gamble on when I first signed up, and 2 weeks after I returned home, they were offering free night stays if used over the next few months.
Stay at a cheaper resort or hotel, this is beneficial because you do so much walking anyway, wandering in and out of the casinos. Use deals, promos and discounts to get a casino resort to become affordable. (My Vegas Slots) If walking is an issue, which at times it is for me, you can rent scooters to go up and down the strip. There are several places to choose from and prices start at 70 bucks for a whole day.
Save those feet some more and use the monorail. It takes you from MGM Grand to the Sahara, with plenty of stops in between. You can buy daily passes, or up to a 7 days pass. Keep reading this article and I will tell you how to get them cheaper, buy 1 get 1 half off (My Vegas Slots). Now the tram is located at the back of all those casino stops, so you will have to do some walking to get back through the casino to the strip. But if you have specific places you want to visit it is great. Save those feet, do a few casinos each day, don't try to do all casinos is a couple days,
There are also free trams to a few casinos which is helpful also. Visit Excalibur, Luxor and Mandalay Bay by a tram, and Treasure Island to The Mirage has a tram. (Go check The Mirage before it is gone, Hard Rock bought it out, it is closing in July for renovations). The last tram is Park MGM to Aria to Bellagio.
If you have rented a car, or plan to rent a car. I use deals to do it also. My pick when I am not finding anything cheap enough Fox Car Rentals. They are the cheapest, and as long as you don't have to have a car in perfect condition it is great. If you have flown into the airport, take the shuttle to the rental car pickup area, don't go inside, out front is another shuttle pick up that will take you to Fox Car Rental that is up the road a little bit more.
Rental cars have their benefits when using casinos because there are several casinos with free parking. The Sahara, Circus Circus,and Treasure Island are on the strip casinos that offer free parking. Oyo Hotel which offers cheap table games and usually if you sign up for a gambling card you get free plays on slot machines. They also have free parking and will get you the closest to the MGM Grand and monorail that's behind MGM Grand. Oyo Hotel is 1 block back from the strip. MGM properties offer 3-hour free parking for locals, but that's it. Other places to park for free are the Shops at Crystals, Fashion Show Mall and the Shops at Mandalay Palace. Fontainebleau also offers free parking for a few hours, so stop by and take a look, even if not gambling. It's a beautiful casino.
Las Vegas Cheap Eats
Cheap eats, almost every casino has a food court area, or at least 1 fast food place that is cheap. But it is also good to escape the strip to find cheap eats. Now don't get me wrong I suggest a splurge or 2 on food here. There are several I highly recommend, but this is my list of cheap eats.
*Eggslut-breakfast- Cosmopolitan (be early, as with any cheap breakfast spot in Vegas)
*Excalibur brunch buffet- (My Vegas Slots will get you a deal). Where else can you get a seafood soup with crab legs in it and a breakfast buffet.
*Excalibur also has an excellent food court with cheap eats.
*Tacos El Gordo- near Circus Circus and The Encore
*CrunCheese Korean Hot Dog- a different take on a hot dog, located in Chinatown, Shanghai Plaza on Spring Mountain Road. There are several other cheap eats restaurants located in this plaza there including one my favorite bakery. 85C Bakery Cafe
*Seigals Bagelmania- Sandwiches, deli, pastries. There is even a Pinkbox Donuts located inside- Convention Center Dr.
*Earl of Sandwich, located in Planet Hollywood
*Brioche by Guy Savoy- breakfast is cheap- located in Caeser's Palace
*In-n-Out Burger several locations in the Vegas area.
*Viva Las Arepas- just north of The Strat
*Miricle Mile shops- several cheap eats- located behind Planet Hollywood. This is a beautiful area to walk around. Lots of shops are attached to Hilton Elera also.
Now as I mentioned before MY Vegas Slots, I downloaded this app and play for about 20 minutes a day and earn points to use in Vegas and other places around the world. This is a free ap, you do not have to put money into it to earn points, and you earn quickly. Discounts on monorail, and hotels stays as mentioned before. Also discounts on shows, attractions and gambling perks if you are staying at that resort. Check it out.
Plan Your Ultimate Vegas Adventure
Las Vegas is so much more than its casinos. Whether you're here for a family vacation, a solo adventure, or a romantic getaway, there's something for everyone to enjoy. From iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods to stunning natural wonders just a short drive away, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration and excitement.
Ready to experience Vegas beyond the slots and tables? Start planning your trip today and discover all the incredible non-gambling activities this dynamic city has to offer.
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Las Vegas is waiting. Are you ready to explore?
Learn more about the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling and start your adventure today!
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By exploring the hidden gems and diverse attractions listed above, you'll see a side of Las Vegas that many visitors miss. Whether you're captivated by the city's history, the bustling energy of the Strip, or the serene beauty of the nearby natural landscapes, there's no shortage of adventures awaiting you in Vegas.
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